Train your brain first

Many teens, once they’ve got their mind on it, will hit the gym with gusto. And while a little enthusiasm goes a long way, there’s a really important concept that you have to get your head around first before you start throwing weight around. And that’s progression. “You need to understand when to increase and when not to,” Kielbaso says. “A lot of young guys are more interested in demonstrating strength rather than developing it, and they’re more eager to compare how much they can lift compared to others versus building up safely.” So check your ego at the gym door and commit to taking it slowly, especially at first, for the greatest gains.